The Whitsdom Press

Tag: business

  • 8 High-Earning Licenses You Can Start Now

    In today’s economy, you don’t need a huge investment or a lengthy degree to launch a profitable business. Many high-demand services require a simple license or certification, allowing you to start fast and earn big, often working from home.

    Here are eight licenses and certifications with low start-up costs and massive earning potential, broken down by cost, income, and how to get started.

    1. Notary & Loan Signing Agent 🖊️

    Want a flexible side hustle that pays well per hour? Becoming a Notary Public and a certified Loan Signing Agent is a fantastic option.

    • 📍 Start-Up Cost: $100–$300
    • 💰 Earning Potential: $75–$200 per signing
    • 💡 Why It’s Popular: You can work from home, partner with real estate agents and title companies, and notarize documents locally.
    • 🚀 How to Start:
      • Apply via your Secretary of State website.
      • Get bonded and secure Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance.
      • Join specialized platforms like SigningOrder.com or NotaryDash to get assignments.

    2. Tax Preparer / Bookkeeping 📊

    Tap into the lucrative, seasonal demand for financial expertise. This license is easily scalable and provides excellent income during tax season.

    • 📍 Start-Up Cost: $300–$600
    • 💰 Earning Potential: $10K–$100K+ per tax season
    • 💡 Why It’s Popular: The work is seasonal but high-income and easily scalable by serving virtual clients across the country.
    • 🚀 How to Start:
      • Apply for an IRS PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number) and EFIN (Electronic Filing Identification Number).
      • Get training via the IRS or organizations like NATP (National Association of Tax Professionals).
      • Use professional software like TaxSlayer or Drake.

    3. Freight Dispatcher 🚚

    Become the remote traffic controller for the trucking industry. This business allows you to manage logistics without ever owning a truck.

    • 📍 Start-Up Cost: $300–$700
    • 💰 Earning Potential: $1K–$5K/week
    • 💡 Why It’s Popular: You can work remotely, managing loads for small trucking companies and owner-operators.
    • 🚀 How to Start:
      • Get an EIN and set up an LLC for your business.
      • Create professional contracts and carrier packets.
      • Use industry load boards like DAT or Truckstop to find work.

    4. General Contractor 🏗️

    For those with construction experience, a General Contractor license is the key to managing high-value construction and remodeling projects.

    • 📍 Start-Up Cost: $500–$1,500
    • 💰 Earning Potential: $100K–$500K+ yearly
    • 💡 Why It’s Popular: It allows you to manage construction projects, remodel homes, and partner directly with developers for major work.
    • 🚀 How to Start:
      • Apply through your state licensing board.
      • Show proof of insurance and experience.
      • Build a reliable network of subcontractors (electricians, plumbers, etc.).

    5. Grant Writer Certification 📝

    Nonprofits, charities, and small businesses constantly need funding, creating a steady, high-paying demand for skilled grant writers.

    • 📍 Start-Up Cost: $100–$300 (for an online certification)
    • 💰 Earning Potential: $500–$5K per client/proposal
    • 💡 Why It’s Popular: You fill a constant need: helping organizations secure funds from foundations and government sources.
    • 🚀 How to Start:
      • Take a certified course (e.g., on Udemy, Coursera, or GrantStation).
      • Build a portfolio of strong proposal samples.
      • Pitch your services on platforms like Fiverr or LinkedIn.

    6. Business Formation / Credit Consulting 🤝

    Everyone wants to build a successful business or repair their credit. This niche allows you to sell valuable, done-for-you packages and mentorships.

    • 📍 Start-Up Cost: $200–$500
    • 💰 Earning Potential: $3K–$10K/month
    • 💡 Why It’s Popular: You can offer “done-for-you” packages for setting up LLCs or improving credit scores—services almost every entrepreneur needs.
    • 🚀 How to Start:
      • Register your business as a consulting firm.
      • Get certified (optional but helpful) via organizations like NACSO or CCA.
      • Offer and schedule your services through platforms like Shopify or Calendly.

    7. Life & Health Insurance Agent 🛡️

    A license that builds long-term wealth through residual income, allowing you to sell essential policies and build a sales team.

    • 📍 Start-Up Cost: $200–$500
    • 💰 Earning Potential: $50K–$250K+ yearly (commissions + renewals)
    • 💡 Why It’s Popular: It allows you to sell crucial policies, build teams, and earn passive income through policy renewals.
    • 🚀 How to Start:
      • Take your state-approved pre-licensing course.
      • Pass your state exam to get licensed.
      • Partner with established companies like Primerica, PHP, or State Farm.

    8. Real Estate Agent 🏡

    Real estate is a classic path to wealth, offering high commissions and opportunities for passive investment.

    • 📍 Start-Up Cost: $400–$1,000 (classes + exam fees)
    • 💰 Earning Potential: $50K–$250K+ yearly
    • 💡 Why It’s Popular: Real estate remains one of the fastest ways to build generational wealth through commissions, wholesaling, and investments.
    • 🚀 How to Start:
      • Take your state’s pre-licensing course.
      • Pass the state exam.
      • Join a reputable brokerage to begin working.

    I personally wanted to add these next two below because these are what I am aspiring and pursuing:

    9. Cybersecurity Certification (e.g., CompTIA Security+, CEH) 🔒

    As cyber threats constantly evolve, certified professionals who can protect systems and data are in massive demand across every industry.

    • 📍 Start-Up Cost: $390–$1,200 (Exam/Training for a foundational certification)
    • 💰 Earning Potential: $95K–$135K+ yearly (Salaried roles or consulting fees)
    • 💡 Why It’s Popular: The job market is skyrocketing (35% growth projected), and you can choose a specialization like ethical hacking, penetration testing, or governance.
    • 🚀 How to Start:
      • Build a foundation in networking and IT fundamentals (e.g., CompTIA A+ or Network+).
      • Choose a certification like CompTIA Security+ for entry-level skills or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) for offensive security.
      • Enroll in an authorized training course or bootcamp to prepare for the exam.

    10. IT Consulting Business 💻

    If you have expertise in a specific area like cloud migration (Azure/AWS), network design, or enterprise software, you can launch a highly profitable consulting practice.

    • 📍 Start-Up Cost: $500–$3,000 (Insurance, registration, software, certifications)
    • 💰 Earning Potential: $100K–$300K+ yearly (Project fees)
    • 💡 Why It’s Popular: You leverage your existing high-value technical skills to work with multiple clients, setting your own rates and enjoying maximum flexibility.
    • 🚀 How to Start:
      • Define a niche (e.g., small business IT support, cloud security, specific CRM implementation).
      • Register your business (LLC) and obtain professional liability insurance.
      • Enhance credibility with relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, CCNA, or Microsoft/AWS cloud certs).

    Source: Kris Owens of Freedom Bridge Consulting

  • Google Conference Scholarships: Apply Now for Fully-Funded Opportunities

    Google is generously sponsoring an incredible, all-expenses-paid trip for students and recent graduates. They will attend a variety of selected tech, business, STEM, and other related industry conferences! Here’s everything you need to know:

    💻 Who’s eligible?

    • Those who find as being historically underrepresented in tech, business, and STEM industries*
    • Must be a University student or industry professional who is a citizen, permanent resident of, or now studying in the US, Canada, or Mexico
    • All qualified industry professionals and students can apply
    • Read the full eligibility requirements here.

    🔍 What’s included?

    • Conference registration
    • one round trip travel to and from the conference site
    • hotel accommodation for the travel dates as communicated directly with accepted scholars
    • a $100 USD stipend for miscellaneous travel costs and Google swag

    👀 There are 5 conferences you can still apply for by September 10th, 2024. Here are the ones you can choose from:

    If a conference is not listed, you can not use this scholarship application to apply for it.

    ❓ How to apply?

    • Program Overview and FAQs about the program
    • Send your application here

  • GoSkills Business Scholarship: Empower Your Career in Business

    For high school and college students looking to make their mark in the business world, the GoSkills Business Scholarship offers an incredible opportunity to support their educational and entrepreneurial journey. This scholarship is specifically designed to empower students who have a passion for business and a want to develop their skills to make a positive impact.

    About the GoSkills Business Scholarship

    GoSkills is an online learning platform that provides high-quality courses on essential business skills like project management, Excel, finance, and more. Their scholarship reflects their commitment to helping students succeed in their educational and professional endeavors. The GoSkills Business Scholarship is open to both high school seniors and current college students in 2-year or 4-year institutions.

    Scholarship Details

    • Amount: $2,000
    • Deadline: September 15, 2024 (next deadline, recurring biannually)
    • Eligibility:
      • Must be a high school senior or now enrolled in college
      • Must be pursuing or planning to pursue a career in business
      • Must have a passion for learning and personal development
    • Application Process: Applicants need to send an essay of 500 words or less on the topic of how they will use their education to improve the lives of others.

    This scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for students who are not only academically inclined but also driven by the want to make a difference in their communities and the business world.

    Why Apply?

    The GoSkills Business Scholarship is more than just financial aid; it’s a chance to show your goals and how you can leverage your education to contribute to society. Winning this scholarship can also be a great addition to your resume, showcasing your commitment to business education and personal development.

    How to Apply

    Applying is straightforward. You can visit the GoSkills scholarship page to access the application form and send your essay. Remember to highlight your passion for business and your vision for the future in your submission.

    Tips for a Strong Application

    1. Be Authentic: Share your genuine aspirations and how they align with your educational goals.
    2. Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate how you plan to use your business skills to help others.
    3. Proofread: Make sure your essay is well-written and free of grammatical errors.

    The GoSkills Business Scholarship offers an excellent chance for business-minded students to gain financial support and recognition. If you’re eager to make a positive impact through your business career, this scholarship be the stepping stone you need. Apply before the deadline and take a step closer to achieving your educational and professional dreams!

  • Understanding the BOI Report: A Guide for New Business Owners

    So, you’ve just started your own business—congrats! That’s a huge step, and you’re probably learning about a lot of new things, including something called the “BOI report.” This article will break down what it is, why it’s important, and what you need to do about it, all in simple terms.

    TikTok post with more information about the BOI Report

    What is the BOI Report?

    BOI stands for Beneficial Ownership Information. It’s a report that helps the government know who really owns and controls a company. Even if someone isn’t listed as the owner on paper, if they benefit from the company or control it in some way, they need to be reported.

    This report is part of a law aimed at preventing bad stuff like money laundering (hiding where illegal money comes from) and financing terrorism. Basically, the government wants to make sure companies aren’t being used to hide anything shady.

    Who Needs to File a BOI Report?

    If you own a business, you might need to file this report. Here’s a simple way to know if you need to file:

    • You own 25% or more of the company: If you hold a significant piece of the company, you count as a “beneficial owner.”
    • You control the company: Even if you don’t own 25%, if you have a lot of say in what the company does, you might still need to file.

    So, if you’re the main person running your business, you’ll probably need to file a BOI report.

    What Form to File and When?

    As of now, the specific form and filing system for the BOI (Beneficial Ownership Information) report are managed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). The official FinCEN website where you can find more details is: https://www.fincen.gov/boi. The specific form will ask for details like:

    • Your name
    • Your address
    • Your birthdate
    • Your role in the company

    There is NO FEE to this application and the deadline to file this report is January 1, 2025.

    What Happens If You Don’t File?

    If you fail to file the BOI report or provide false information, you could face significant penalties, such as a fine up to $500 for each day that the report is late or incomplete.

    Why Do You Need to File a BOI Report?

    Filing the BOI report is about transparency. It’s a way for the government to keep track of who is behind different businesses. By filing, you’re showing that your business is legitimate and that you have nothing to hide.

    Conclusion

    Starting a business is exciting, but it also comes with some important responsibilities like filing a BOI report. Remember, this report is about being open and honest about who owns and controls your business. It helps keep everything above board and builds trust with your customers and the government.

    If you’re ever unsure about what to do, don’t hesitate to ask for help from someone who knows the ropes, like a mentor or a professional. The more you learn now, the easier it’ll be to navigate the business world as you grow!

  • The Launchpad: Helping Your Teenager Chart Their Course After High School

    Graduation – a momentous occasion that marks the end of one chapter and the exciting beginning of another. But with that excitement often comes a whirlwind of questions for both teenagers and their parents: What’s next?

    The good news is, there’s no single “right” answer. The post-high school landscape offers a variety of paths, each with its own advantages. Let’s explore some of the most common options to help you and your teenager have a productive conversation about their future.

    The Traditional Path: College

    College remains a popular choice, offering a chance to delve deeper into specific interests, develop critical thinking skills, and broaden one’s knowledge base. Four-year universities aren’t the only option, either. Community colleges provide a cost-effective way to earn associate degrees or transfer to four-year programs.

    Gearing Up for a Trade: Vocational Schools

    Vocational schools or trade schools focus on providing hands-on training for specific careers like welding, cosmetology, or automotive repair. These programs often lead to industry certifications and can be a great way to quickly enter the workforce with in-demand skills.

    Serving Your Country: The Military

    The military offers a structured and disciplined environment, valuable job training, and the opportunity to travel and serve a greater cause. Military service can also provide financial assistance for college education after discharge.

    Expanding Horizons: Studying Abroad

    For the adventurous student, studying abroad presents a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a new culture while earning a degree. This path broadens perspectives, fosters independence, and can give a resume a real edge.

    Taking a Gap Year: Broadening Horizons Through Service

    For some teenagers, a gap year can be a valuable opportunity to explore their interests, gain new skills, and give back to the community before diving into college or the workforce. Several programs like AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and City Year offer structured volunteer experiences that can be both personally enriching and socially impactful. These programs can provide a chance to travel, learn new languages, and develop leadership skills.

    Entering the Workforce

    Some teenagers may be eager to jump right into the workforce and start earning a living. This can be a great way to gain valuable real-world experience and build a strong work ethic. Apprenticeships can also be a good option, combining on-the-job training with paid work.

    Becoming Your Own Boss: Starting a Business

    For the entrepreneurial spirit, starting a business can be incredibly rewarding. This path requires research, planning, and a strong work ethic, but the potential for success and personal fulfillment can be immense.

    The Key: Open Communication and Exploration

    The most important thing is to have open and honest conversations with your teenager. Discuss their interests, strengths, and what kind of lifestyle they envision. Encourage them to research different options, take aptitude tests, and talk to professionals in fields that pique their curiosity.

    Remember, the path after high school isn’t always linear. Some teenagers may choose to combine options, like attending community college while working part-time, or serving in the military and then using GI benefits to pursue a degree. The key is to support your teenager in their exploration and help them make informed decisions about their future.